Quick answer
Both stations have Metro and Cercanías commuter trains. Atocha has Metro line 1 and is the hub of all Cercanías lines; Chamartín has Metro lines 1 and 10. Between Chamartín and Atocha, Cercanías is much faster than the Metro. A single Metro ticket costs €1.50 to €2.
Atocha and Chamartín at a glance
| Station | Metro | Cercanías |
|---|---|---|
| Madrid-Puerta de Atocha | Line 1 | All lines start from or stop at Atocha |
| Madrid-Chamartín-Clara Campoamor | Lines 1 and 10 | Links to Atocha by Cercanías, much faster than by Metro |
From Atocha to the centre
From Atocha, the Metro (line 1) takes you towards Sol, and on foot you reach the Paseo del Prado, Retiro Park and the Barrio de las Letras. If your accommodation is close, walking may be the easiest option. Check the official Metro map for connections.
From Chamartín to the centre
Chamartín has Metro (lines 1 and 10) and Cercanías. To reach the Atocha or Sol area, Cercanías is faster than the Metro, according to Madrid's tourist office. Before boarding, check on the Renfe or Madrid Transport Consortium app which line suits you.
Hours and prices for Metro and Cercanías
- Metro: from about 6:00 am to 1:30 am. A single ticket costs €1.50 to €2 (valid until 31 December 2026). It loads on the Multi card, which costs €2.50.
- Cercanías: runs between 5-6 am and around midnight, normally every 10 to 30 minutes depending on the line. Single tickets range from €1.70 (zones 1/2) to €5.50 (zone 7).
- Children under 4 travel free on the Metro.
If you will make many trips, see our guide to the tourist travel pass.
With luggage: other options
A taxi may be the most comfortable if you arrive with lots of luggage: see taxi and VTC fares and tips. And if you want to start discovering Madrid without carrying anything, a 1-hour tuk tuk leaves from Puerta del Sol.
Frequently asked questions
Which Metro lines serve Atocha?
Line 1, according to the information we could verify.
What is faster between Chamartín and Atocha?
Cercanías, much faster than the Metro according to Madrid's tourist office.
What time does the Madrid Metro close?
Around 1:30 am; it opens around 6:00 am.
How much is the Metro from the station?
A single ticket costs €1.50 to €2, loaded on the Multi card (€2.50).
Sources
Facts and prices checked on 18 October 2026. They can change: confirm them with the official source before you travel.